As homecoming week progresses, students have had increased access to spirit wear. Student Council members have arrived early each morning to pass out spirit accessories that correspond to each theme. Additionally, several senior students have won a free pair of overalls, one of many senior traditions. Wednesday during lunches, a painting party was held in the cafeteria in an effort to encourage students to wear their class T-shirts for the pep assembly Friday.
Student council so far this year has put a strong emphasis on school spirit. Student-Body President Grace Greenly has led the organization in creating ways to make participating in dress up days more affordable. Students were given free sheriff badges and mustaches for Monday’s “Cowboy Day” and stick on gems for “Denim and Diamonds Day”.
“I think it is up to student council to get everyone involved. I’m trying to increase spirit but instead of alienating people I’m trying to involve everyone through resources as student council,” said senior Grace Greenly.
Handing out resources has increased participation in dress up days, especially within the lowerclassmen.
“We’re promoting school spirit and trying to get more students involved and engaged, and with that it just seems like by providing these things kids are willing. So it takes the financial barrier out of that, because I think sometimes for some of the things that was truly and issue. They would have participated but they just didn’t have the money to do that, “ said Counselor and Student Council Advisor Melia Gobble.
Beyond dress up days associated with the various school dances, seniors have a tradition of wearing decorated painting overalls. However, the overalls are only sold in a few stores, and are typically close to $40. Unfortunately, in the past this has allowed only those with the money to be able to participate.
Past years have seen most “friend groups” decorate separately. This summer, however, Grace Greenly hosted a decorating event where everyone was welcome in an attempt to further unify the senior class.
“I was just sick of everyone doing it in their own groups, we’re together, and we should be doing things together, as a class. I also didn’t want anyone who didn’t have a group to decorate to feel excluded. Why not just invite everyone from every group to come decorate so that no one is feeling left out?” said Greenly.
Student Council has tried to increase senior participation by holding a drawing in the mornings to give out free overalls. Senior Brooke Wolanin was one of the winners.
“[The overalls] are pretty expensive, and [the drawing] is a great opportunity for people who can’t afford it or don’t have the time to go get them. It’s very inclusive and…it gives people the opportunity to be apart of the spirit and traditions of LHS,” said Wolanin.
Student council is hoping to increase the budget for providing spirit day resources to promote inclusion and unity.